🔗 Share this article

A mere eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or the reason of the side's wider issues.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their opening six games, now sit a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. History, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have piled up.

Per Opta, on just two occasions has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, they appear weirdly vulnerable – but right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, curled right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival Villa must confront in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.